RUAG and Pilatus on schedule with conversion of military aircraft
Emmen/Stans - The state-owned armament company RUAG in the canton of Lucerne and aircraft manufacturer Pilatus have already modernized 14 Pilatus PC-7 for the Swiss Air Force. These aircraft are the backbone for the basic training of military pilots. The conversion of the remaining 13 machines is also running according to plan.
RUAG and Pilatus are reporting half-time in the fleet conversion project of Pilatus PC-7 aircraft for the Swiss Air Force. The value retention program launched in 2023 plans to modernize all 27 turboprop training aircraft in the Swiss Air Force. These aircraft have formed the backbone for the basic training of military pilots for more than four decades. Alongside the original manufacturer, Pilatus, RUAG is responsible for the implementation of the project as a comprehensive technical partner.
According to a RUAG press release, 14 aircraft have been successfully modified thus far, eight of these by RUAG at its Lodrino site in the canton of Ticino and six by Pilatus at its headquarters in Stans in the canton of Nidwalden. In order to ensure the availability of the fleet for the Air Force at all times, four aircraft are currently modernized simultaneously.
RUAG explains that the collaboration with Pilatus and the customer, armasuisse, is running very effectively. Project management also receives active support through regular meetings with all partners. Cooperation with the armasuisse test pilots, who perform the acceptance flights following successful modification, is reportedly also constructive and efficient.
RUAG states that the project is running according to schedule. This is thanks to the structured collaboration of all those involved, the introduced optimization measures and a motivated team. RUAG regard itself as a reliable technological partner with comprehensive expertise in the field of lifecycle management.
The state company will be one of the exhibitors in the SWISS Pavilion at the 55th International Paris Air Show. The trade fair will take place at Paris-Le Bourget Airport slightly north of the French capital.
